Witness the excitement of Chicago’s extensive performing arts scene during the sixth annual Chicago Live! festival on September 19-20, 2026. Navy Pier will host free, non-stop performances featuring Chicago dance, theater, music and more during the two-day event.
Photo courtesy of Navy Pier.
The breadth of Chicago’s music, dance, theater and cultural performing artists will be on display with over 100 acts across five stages during the Midwest’s largest performing arts festival. This year’s event will be headlined by Chicago’s own Grammy Award-winning rapper, actor, activist and student mentor, Common. The musician will perform many of the hits from his four-decade music career, including “The Light” and “Go.”
Some of the city’s premier ensembles and musicians include Muntu Dance Theater, Joffrey Ballet, Lookingglass Theatre Company, blues guitarist Melody Angel, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Red Clay Dance Company, vocalist JC Brooks and Joel Hall Dancers will perform during the festival.
Photo courtesy of Navy Pier
Chicago Live! runs from noon to 9 pm on September 19 and noon to 6 pm on September 20. Don’t miss the finale on Saturday, which will feature a dazzling fireworks display.
Chicago Live!
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.
September 19-20, 2026, noon-10 pm, noon- 6 pm
Free
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